Tsiyon House of Worship fellowship December 28, 2019
A Messianic Hanukkah By Angela J. Willard Hanukkah (Chanukah) is the ‘Jewish’ eight-day “festival of lights,” celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, special prayers, singing and dancing, and fried foods such as latkes and ‘jelly-filled donuts’. It is celebrated in memory of Elohim’s deliverance of the Jewish people who revolted against the Syrian-Greek oppression over 2000 years ago (167 BC – 160 BC ). The pagans overtook the temple of Elohim and defiled it and would not allow the Jewish people to continue with the commandments Elohim had given them. A small Jewish army overcame the strongest army on earth (at that time), and the temple was cleansed and restored. When the Jews went to light the menorah (a perpetual commandment in the Torah) they found there was only enough olive oil for one night. They blessed the oil, lit the one ‘oil candle’ and Elohim did the rest. That one jar of oil lasted eight nights instead of just one, which was a miracle. It was such an awesome miracle that this special time was commemorated and continues to this day. We celebrate victory over the enemy and Elohim’s miraculous meeting up with man’s inadequacy and need. The Hebrew word Hanukkah ‘Chanukah’ means “dedication,” and is named because it celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple. Fast forward to when Yeshua (Jesus) was born into the world and was named The Light of the World. “Therefore יהושע spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall by no means walk in darkness, but possess the light of life.” John 8:12 ISR It is my belief that Hanukkah points the way to our Messiah Yeshua—who is our everlasting light in this sometimes very dark and cold world. This light, just like the original Hanukkah light, was a gift from Elohim sending light into a renewed temple. Now, because of Yeshua, WE are the renewed temple of Elohim. The eight nights represent a new beginning, in Biblical numerology, eight means new beginning. Yeshua is the everlasting light to the world and a new beginning for all mankind, not just the Jewish people. He brought a renewed covenant and established it here on earth. He is our new beginning when we turn away from our sinful nature and walk in the ways He has shown us. Whether you celebrate Hanukkah or not, I hope to help you understand it’s not just a Jewish holiday. It is a day to honor Elohim and the miracle of the Light of the World. It is for all of Elohim’s people. Happy Hanukkah! Tsiyon House of Worship is a fellowship of His Work Global Ministries, Inc. |
FellowshipIn this blog you will find our discussion topics and files. Enjoy! ArchivesCategories
All
|